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Announcing the second annual Open Sky Roast-off on Saturday, August 25, at the North Riverside Farmers Market just west of Chicago (map: http://snurl.com/opensky), between 8:00 am and 1:00 pm. Last year we debuted our new roaster prototype (http://marquardts.org/Coffee/openskyroaster.html). This year we're unveiling the production model -- a 10 pound roaster (not grill-based) with a surprise feature or two.

Amateur coffee roasters are invited to bring their own greens to roast (minimum batch size between 1.5 and 2 lbs). Swap beans with other roasters, answer questions from inquisitive coffee lovers, trade tips, make friends, and enjoy several varieties of coffee (freshly brewed and free during the event). You may bring your own rested roasts for brewing as well.

What to expect: This is a small farmer's market (no huge crowds), so think of this as a roasting meet-up but with numerous coffee-loving civilians on hand who'll love conversing with you about your craft. Attendees are welcome to bring their own small roasters. Available AC power should be sufficient if you wish to demonstrate your innovations with poppers, heat guns, and so forth. Attendees are welcome to offer patrons free samples of anything they roast on-site.

RSVP from amateur roasters would be helpful, but not necessary. Professional roasters are also welcome.